Save time, hassle by keeping contacts updated

While preparing a presentation for the National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions (NACHRI) conference, I noticed a point in my talk that applies to any situation or profession: update your contacts lists.  Well, obviously you may be thinking.  But how often do we get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life that we forget to check in, only to discover that someone has left a news bureau or switched to another department when we have a bounced-back email sitting in our inbox?  Most of my contacts give me a heads-up when they shift gears (and phone numbers) but there are those that go unnoticed that can leave you in a bind – or at least temporarily annoyed – as you search for their replacement or their new information.

At NACHRI, I discussed Mass. General’s response to the Haiti crisis and our consequential interaction with the media.  Among many lessons learned was the reminder to continually keep track of staff members who belong to emergency response teams. As they often deploy at a moment’s notice, it makes our lives easier to pre-identify multiple point people who are media savvy and willing to interview and be filmed packing or spending time with family before leaving for the disaster area.  (We learned that most of them, sensibly, already have a bag packed and waiting to go so packing shots are more contrived).

When time and communication are limited, it helps to know exactly who to turn to, whose toes not to step on, and who can best connect you to the most recent and relevant information.  It holds true in any disaster, whether it’s one on a global scale or happening right inside your cubicle.